11 Strangest and weird tortoises and turtles found around the world

Love with turtles and tortoises is not so difficult. They are often alluring in their own weird world, sometimes awkwardly beautiful and always attractive. But how much we think about these reptiles, in spite of this, many species can surprise us especially with strange adaptations, adjustments, and remarkable abilities.

African helmeted turtle (Pelomedusa subrufa)

Mata mata turtle (Chelus fimbriatus)

Credit: wikimedia.org

It seems like that this species of turtle is a collection of rocks and rotting leaves under the pond, but it is Not! it is a Mata mata turtle. This South American is a hidden species who prefer to live in slow-moving streams, decaying pools, and marshes. The shell of Mata mata has resemblance with bark and a head and neck, which looks like falling leaves, the fish that floats very close to sucking for lunch, never have a chance to see what’s coming. The species has specificallya long snout (nose) which helps it in snorkeling, sticking it just out of the water to breathe.

Red-bellied short-necked turtle (Emydura subglobosa)

This endearing turtle species is popular in the pet trade. When it is young, it is characterized by a bright red stomach, which is either orange or yellow as further, it ages. The species finds its habitat in tropical Australia and New Guinea, it extends up to 10 inches long and can be made for a rigid pet with the right care.

Spiny softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera)

Credit: tortoisetown.com

It is one of the largest freshwater turtles which is found in the region of North America, and females can grow their shell size up to about 18 inches long. From Canada to Mexico, these turtles are alive for a long time. They do not reach sexual maturity till 8-10 years of age and can survive to stay older than 50 years. small spines are the origin to its name, which projects from the upper part of its carapace (shell), which makes it look like a long-lost dinosaur relative!

Roti Island snake-necked turtle (Chelodina mccordi)

Credit: fws.gov

This is especially one of the many species of turtles with especially long necks. Shells of the Roti Island snake-necked turtle range from 7-9 inches long in size and its neck can be evenly as long. But these species are critically endangered – this is one of the most sought-after turtles in the pet trade, which has given birth to a serious decline in the wild population. In the small area of Rote island, only two or three of their total population are left, and they are still illegally occupied for business. Thus, the encroachment by humans leads to the extinction of this species.

Radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata)

Credit: relivearth.com

Radiated tortoise is native to Madagascar, these beautiful turtle species are critically endangered due to the loss of housing, hunting, and collection for the pet trade. Species grow up to a length of about 16 inches, and they can weigh about 35 pounds. Like many turtle species, radiation turtles can enjoy a long life. In fact, the oldest radiation tortoise on the record was the Tu’i Malila, who died at an estimated age of 188 years.

Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)

Credit: wikimedia.org

The leatherback is a shining star of sea turtles. These species are the largest of them, take the deepest dives, and they travel the farthest. Their courage is appreciated as they actually fight back and daringly chase predators like sharks. Unlike other sea turtles, there is no shell in it; Instead, its back is covered with skin and oily flesh. The leather piece is endangered and still declining in huge numbers.

Indian flap shell turtle (Lissemys punctata)

The Indian flap shell is famous for its ski which has so much of folds in it, also which covers its limbs after retreating into its shell. Whether it helps the predators to protect it or not, it is unknown, but it ensures that it looks a bit like the two snails have been planted in its shell. As an omnivore, it tastes food starting from frogs to fishes to flowers and fruits. It loves to live in streams and ponds, as it can tolerate a certain level of drought by digging a hole and traveling to other water holes. The folds in the skin help it to survive in the dry weather also.

Alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)

Credit: wikimedia.org

The world’s largest freshwater turtle based on weight – they can weigh more than 150 pounds. In the southeastern United States, Alligator snapping turtle is found. It gets its name both through its original, ‘gator-like appearance’ and its camouflage hunting style technique. Its mouth is sort of hidden and there is a worm-like limb on the tip of your tongue to entice in hunting, which can be anything from fish to snakes to birds of water to other turtles.

It is completely motionless with a wide open mouth, it is literally waiting to come close to an animal’s mouth, which is like a child’s play for it doing with unbelievable speed.

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